The Internet is changing society. And it’s also true that society is changing the Internet, through the choices we all make on the web every day.

For Google, the point at which the Internet and society intersect is fascinating. Seeing different perspectives and understanding cultural nuances is critical to how we develop our services.

That’s why, back in February 2011, our Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt that we would support the establishment of an Institute for Internet and Society in Berlin. So we’re pleased to report that this initiative is now gathering pace and that four highly renowned German research institutions have agreed to join with us in founding the Institute.

Academic independence is a key founding principle of the Institute. The structure of the Institute and the credentials of the directors - and of the independent Scientific Advisory Board, currently being appointed - will ensure that this is upheld.

The founding team:

Prof. Schildhauer, Dr. Hofmann, Dr. Schulz, Prof. Pernice

The Institute will be officially opened in late October 2011, with an international symposium. Between now and then, there is much work to be done: contracts have to be finalised, rooms renovated, the research agenda formulated. We have found great institutions and great people as partners, and we think they will produce great results too. We hope to see you in October, and that you’ll follow the work of the Institute closely.

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